Meatballs In Chili Sauce
Juicy meatballs simmered in a flavorful chili sauce, blending beef, pork, and spices, perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings with a hint of Mexican flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the corn tortilla pieces in milk in a large bowl for 15 minutes.
- Mix the soaked tortillas, ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, chopped garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a 10-inch skillet, bring the taco sauce and beef broth to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the meatballs into the sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Optional: Sprinkle with snipped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in a tablespoon of chili powder or fresh cilantro into the meatball mixture. If you don't have ground pork, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Adjust the spices according to your taste preference. This recipe can also be adapted for a healthier version by using lean ground beef. Serve with a side of rice or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over a bed of rice or alongside warm tortillas for a complete meal. They pair well with a fresh avocado salad or a side of refried beans. For a fun twist, try them in tacos or serve with a side of chips and guacamole. They also complement Mexican recipes like Layered Tortilla Bake beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs In Chili Sauce contains roughly 220 calories, with 11g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (94% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 673mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.
What kind of sauce can I use if I don't have taco sauce?
If taco sauce is unavailable, you can make a quick substitute by combining tomato sauce with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Alternatively, salsa can also work well to give the meatballs a zesty flavor.
How can I make the meatballs spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).